ecancermedicalscience

Review

The challenge of chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment: assessing and managing cognitive decline after cancer treatment

7 Aug 2025
Lucas Tadeu Barrak Stangler, Amanda Acioli de Almeida Robatto, Pedro José Galvão Freire, Gilberto de Castro Junior

Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) refers to a decline in cognitive function in patients during and after cancer treatment and is mainly associated with the use of cytotoxic chemotherapy (CT). As CT is still an essential component in the treatment of many cancers and taking into account the fact that cancer survival rates are increasing, CRCI may negatively impact the quality of life and working capacity of a growing number of individuals, especially those treated with curative intent in conditions such as breast cancer. There is still a need to address several issues related to CRCI, namely: the improved identification of risk factors, earlier diagnosis, more effective treatment strategies and prevention. Currently, the diagnosis relies on a multidisciplinary evaluation using neuropsychological tests, and rehabilitation remains the only treatment option available. A better understanding of the pathophysiological basis of CRCI is essential to improve the daily care and long-term outcomes of these patients.

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